33 magical places in Birmingham and the West Midlands to take your children before they grow up

Childhood doesn't last forever—but the memories you make can.

If you're raising a family in or around Birmingham and the West Midlands, you're surrounded by magical places that will leave a lasting impression on your kids.

From castles and steam trains to enchanted woodlands and science museums, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting right outside your door.

Whether your child loves nature, stories, animals, or hands-on discovery, this region has something to spark their curiosity and fuel their imagination. Some places are wild and whimsical, others are rich in history or soaked in chocolate (literally). All of them offer something special—something worth doing before they grow up.

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Here’s your ultimate list of magical places to visit with your children across Birmingham and the West Midlands:

Have we missed any? Drop us an email to [email protected].

Big adventures & attractions:

• Cadbury World (Bournville) – Chocolate meets storytelling. Fun factory tours, rides, and sweet memories.
• Warwick Castle – A real medieval castle with jousting, dungeons, archery, and falconry shows.
• West Midland Safari Park (Bewdley) – Drive-through safari, dinosaur valley, theme park rides.
• Severn Valley Railway – Steam train journey through the countryside—especially magical at Christmas.
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre (Birmingham) – Imagination, miniatures, and hands-on builds for younger kids.

Nature & outdoor escapes:

• Sandwell Valley Country Park – Wide open spaces, farm animals, and adventure playgrounds.
• Lickey Hills Country Park – Climb to the top, see Birmingham below, run wild in the woods.
• Cannock Chase – Gruffalo Trail – Hunt for statues from the beloved book in magical woodland.
• Forge Mill Farm (Sandwell) – Meet animals, ride tractors, and enjoy hands-on farm fun.
• Ryton Pools Country Park (Coventry area) – Nature trails, play zones, and pond dipping.
• Bodenham Arboretum (Kidderminster) – Autumn magic, tree trails, and wooden bridges.
• Malvern Hills – Just outside the Midlands—breathtaking views, myths, and legends.
• Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens- hidden gardens near to Birmingham Airport - perfect for plane spotting and walks

Imaginative & whimsical

• The Wizard’s Thatch at Hatton Adventure World – Spells, wand-making, and theatrical magic.
• Fairy Trail at Trentham Gardens (Staffordshire) – Sculpted fairies hidden throughout scenic walks.
• Winterbourne House & Garden – Secret garden vibes, nature trails, and bug spotting.
• Mad O'Rourke’s Pie Factory (Tipton) – Wacky décor and giant pies in a kid-wow setting.
• Enchanted Gardens at Webbs of Wychbold – Seasonal light trails and magical displays.

Learning that feels like play

• Thinktank Science Museum – Robots, a planetarium, and a mini city to roleplay in.
• Lapworth Museum of Geology – Dinosaurs, fossils, and hands-on exhibits.
• The Coffin Works – Quirky history and fascinating Victorian funeral tales.
• Coventry Transport Museum – Fast cars, land speed simulators, and cycling history.
• British Motor Museum – Huge collection of iconic British vehicles.
• The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery (Stoke-on-Trent) – Spitfire, ancient treasures, and free entry.
• Plane viewing car park 5 at Birmingham Airport or Sheldon Country Park (also perfect for plane-spotting, with park, farm and cafe nearby)

Historic & cultural wonders

• Black Country Living Museum – Step back in time: sweet shops, canal boats, Peaky Blinders sets.
• Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses – Hobbit-like homes carved into cliffs.
• Mac Birmingham/ Cannon Hill Park – Arts, theatre, crafts, and family workshops.
• Birmingham Botanical Gardens – Glasshouses, exotic plants, and butterflies.
• Walsall Arboretum – Lakes, ducks, and peaceful family walks.
• Ikon Gallery’s Family Events (Brindleyplace) – Modern art and interactive workshops.

Seasonal & special events

• Birmingham’s Lunar New Year or Diwali Celebrations – Lights, culture, food, and music.
• Outdoor Cinema at Dudley Castle or Himley Hall – Movies under the stars in magical settings.